Electric 'Bicycle' Goes 80 MPH, 200 Miles on Single Charge

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Electric 'Bicycle' Goes 80 MPH, 200 Miles on Single Charge

Photo: Hanebrink

You can’t get from LA to Las Vegas on a single charge, even on a primo electric motorcycle. So how do you squeeze more distance out of current battery technology? The Hanebrink X-5adds pedals and loses some weight.

Hanebrink has released four models of bicycles, including the X-5, the most sophisticated in the lineup. The 120-pound bike has a dual suspension monocoque chassis build out of aircraft-grade aluminum tubing. The suspension has 177 mm of travel to keep the ride smooth, while Avid hydraulic front brakes and rear Brembo four-piston brakes bring it to a stop. Hanebrink says, “Optional adjustable offset triple clamp forks allow the rider to adjust for corner entry reaction from very quick to very stable, or anywhere in between."

Mounted inside a water-tight box lies four lithium-ion liquid-cooled batteries that Hanebrink claims will get you 200 miles of travel on a single charge. The 14-speed transmission (yes, 14) lets you hit a top speed of around 80 mph.

When the juice runs out, use a coin to turn the fasteners and pop out the pedals from behind the fairings to go on human power. Regarding the X5's street legality, Hanebrink says, "the benefit of a legal electric bicycle is, of course, that it does not require registration, drivers license, or special motorcycle permit, etc. and can be operated where motorcycles are not permitted."

The X-5 carries an exceptionally high sticker of $16,940, and if you order now and you can expect delivery by the end of March 2013. But we'd suggest checking with your local DMV before making a deposit.